CHURCH of SAINT MARY Th e Second Sunday of Advent December 4, 2016
Reverend Father Robert A. Romeo | Pastor Reverend Father Jiha Lim | Parochial Vicar Reverend Father Jude Dioka | Parochial Vicar Reverend Father Nicholas Zientarski | Weekend Assistant
1300 Northern Boulevard | Manhasset, New York 11030 516 627 0385 | Fax 516 627 6070 www.stmary.ws Parish Mission Statement We, the community of Saint Mary’s, Manhasset, building on our rich heritage of Catholic faith and tradition, center ourselves in the Eucharist and honor God in proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ. Guided by the Holy Spirit, we seek to be the presence of Christ through our liturgical, educational and social ministries. We dedicate our time, talent and treasure to the service of all as we build the kingdom of God in our world. We commit to this mission in the name of Jesus Christ.
Church of Saint Mary PARISH DIRECTORY 1300 Northern Boulevard Pastoral Staff Manhasset, New York 11030 Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo (516) 627-0385 Pastor Christine Sutherland Fax (516) 627-6070 627-0385 | ext. 1004 Coordinator of Parish www.stmary.ws [email protected] Social Ministry 365-2705 | ext. 1126 Schedule of Masses Fr. Jiha Lim Monday–Friday 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM Parochial Vicar Th e Schools of Saint Mary Saturday 8:00 AM, 5:00 PM 627-0385 | ext. 1006 Nursery through 12th Grade Sunday 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, [email protected] 12:00 Noon and 5:00 PM Grace M. Cavallo Fr. Jude Dioka President Parochial Vicar Sacrament of Penance 627-2711 627-0385 | ext. 1011 [email protected] Saturdays from 4:00-4:45 PM and by appointment. Please call 627-0385. Fr. Nicholas Zientarski Weekend Assistant Sean T. Collins ’73, ’77 Vice President of Development Anointing of the Sick 627-4605 Th e Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick Parish Staff [email protected] is celebrated in the Chapel on the second Anthony Chiofolo Sunday of the month following the Controller Eileen M. Symmons ’82, ’86 10:30 AM Mass. If you are unable to come 627-0385 | ext. 1007 Director of Communications to Church, please call the Parish Offi ce to Jane Cliff ord 627-2711 | ext. 1081 make arrangements for Anointing or to Bulletin Editor [email protected] receive the Eucharist. [email protected] Kiera Gmelich Walsh Michael Griffi n Director of Alumni and Parent Parish Offi ce Youth Minister Relations 627-0385 | Fax 627-6070 627-0385 | ext. 1001 627-2711 | ext. 1162 Monday - Th ursday 9:30 AM–8:00 PM [email protected] [email protected] Friday 9:30 AM-5:00 PM Vincent Hartley Saturday 8:30 AM–5:00 PM Facilities Manager St. Mary’s Elementary School Sunday 9:45 AM–1:30 PM 627-0385 | ext. 1002 627-0184 E-mail: [email protected] www.stmary11030.org Annette Lachmeyer Parish Offi ce Celeste M. Checchia, PhD Parish Social Ministry 627-0385 | ext. 1008 365-2705 Principal Monday-Th ursday 9:45 AM-12:00 Noon Robert Levulis 1:00 PM-4:00 PM Music Director Sarah de Venoge ‘02, ‘06 313-7606 Assistant Principal
Religious Education Sr. Teresa Raftery, IHM St. Mary’s High School 627-4028 Adult Faith Formation 627-2711 Monday 12:00 Noon-9:00 PM 627-0385 | ext. 1010 www.inspiredthinkers.org Wednesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Frank Souza Tuesday and Th ursday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM Director of Religious Education Jonathan D. Kramer ’92 Closed on Friday 627-4028 | ext. 1127 Principal [email protected] From the Pastor’s Desk
Dear Parishioners,
“Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight His paths.” (Matthew 3:3)
Th ese words of St. John the Baptist defi ne these weeks of Advent. As we prepare for Christmas and the celebration of the Birth of our Savior Jesus this season calls us to take stock of our lives. Are we ready not only for the celebration of Jesus’ birth BUT ALSO more importantly for His coming in glory? Last week we heard that Jesus would come like a thief in the night. A thief comes when we least expect it and the hope is that our homes will be prepared and secured to protect us from being robbed. Th e Second Coming of Jesus comes the same way. Th e diff erence is that we should not lock our Savior out but rather make sure that our hearts and lives are ready so that we may receive the gift of eternal life. Today our Gospel gives us the words of St. John the Baptist..prepare the way of the Lord. Th e context of that preparation can be seen in the next line...make straight His paths. We all know how much easier and effi cient it is to drive on a straight highway than it is driving on a curving back road. Th e back road usually makes the trip longer and can be fi lled with elements that can cause problems in our drive. St. John is relating this to our own lives and the paths we have chosen. Th e Word/Bible/Scriptures and the teachings of the Church give us a direction and path we need to daily embrace to prepare the way of the Lord. Internalizing these through prayer and meditation can keep the path to the Lord straight and clear. Advent is the challenge to look inside our hearts and remove the roadblocks and curves that make the way of the Lord to our hearts more diffi cult.
St. Paul’s letter to the Romans gives us some great areas to ponder. Are we willing to help others? Are we tolerant and patient? Do we treat all people in a friendly and welcoming manner? St. Paul tells us that our actions to each other have the power to give glory to God...and the reverse is also true. Our actions can bring us further away from the Kingdom of God. So this season is the looking glass that helps us focus on and change those areas that make us unworthy of the Kingdom of God.
Isaiah presents a picture of the Day of the Lord. No one and no thing shall fear another. All will live in peace and harmony. Th e wolf and the lamb will lie down together and a child will play in a viper’s den. Th is may seem just to be poetic imagery but in reality it can become a blue print for the way we are called to interact with others. Isaiah goes on to speak of the day of justice and mercy. We are always called to be the instruments of this Kingdom and leave no room for the path of the Lord to get lost on the “curves” of our own lives. So as our Advent days continue to move forward look to your life. Is the road and path that Jesus has to your heart one that is straight or do the “sinful” moments make it fi lled with curves and detours?
Th ursday, December 8th, is a Holy Day of Obligation of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. A Holy Day of Obligation carries with it the same requirement to attend Mass as do Sundays. So all Catholics are obligated to attend Mass. Th is is also the patronal feast day of our Nation. Please see this bulletin for the times of Masses.
Also on Th ursday Bishop Murphy will be at our parish for a very special moment for the life of the Diocese. Catherine Dillon will be consecrated as a virgin to live in the world. Her presence is a reminder of the many ways we are called to live out our Christian vocation. Many of us are familiar with those men and women in Contemplative lives that spend their time in prayer for the Church. Th ere is priesthood and Religious Life, Married life, single life and the life that Catherine has chosen, Consecrated life while living in the world. Th e ceremony will begin at 2:00 PM with a reception to follow in the Marian Room. All are most welcome to attend as we pray for Catherine in this new vocation.
In Jesus, Fr. Bob
Th e Second Sunday of Advent | December 4, 2016 Stewards of God’s Gifts
We must be good stewards of God’s gifts to us, receiving them gratefully and cultivating them with care lest we be the ones about whom John the Baptist speaks today: “Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fi re.”
We are grateful this week for all stewards in our parish who strive to consider how they are fulfi lling God’s purpose to be of service to our parish and to the wider community.
Th e collection for Sunday, November 27, 2016 amounted to $25,641.00. Th e collection for Sunday, November 29, 2015 amounted to $28,081.00.
Have you enrolled yet? Visit www.faithdirect.net. Our parish code is NY281. We Care for Our Parish Community
Baptism at St. Mary’s. Grades 1 through 5 meet on Tuesdays and We celebrate Baptism at 2:00 PM on Sundays as scheduled. Th ursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 PM. Families choose which Please call the Parish Offi ce at least one month in advance day. Grades 6, 7 and 8 meet on Mondays from 7:30 to to see if a date is available and to arrange for a pre-baptismal 8:30 PM. For information about Grades 1-8 call 627- interview. Parents are required to attend a baptism 4028. preparation session held once every month. Th ose chosen as sponsors for Baptism should lead lives in harmony with Parish Social Ministry the Catholic faith and the role of Godparent. We care for our sisters and brothers through our Parish Social Ministry and Food Pantry. For information call Marriage 365-2705. At least six months before you plan to be married and before you make arrangements for the reception, please Youth Ministry make an appointment with one of the priests to begin the We reach out to our teens though our Youth Ministry necessary preparations. Program. For information call 627-0385 ext. 1001.
Children’s Education New Parishioners Saint Mary’s Elementary School off ers excellent education We welcome new members to the Catholic Church and to in the spirit of the Gospel from grades N, Pre-K to Eighth Saint Mary’s Parish. If you are new in the area or interested grade. For information call 627-0184. in learning more about the Catholic faith, please call the Parish Offi ce. Empowering Character, Innovation and Leadership in our students, Saint Mary’s High School is a dynamic, Opportunities For Prayer contemporary, Catholic value-centered school, combining Th e Church is open Monday to Friday until 8:45 PM and a commitment to academic excellence and educational on Saturday and Sunday until the end of the 5:00 PM innovation, with a passion for learning, and an emphasis Mass so that we may have the opportunity for quiet prayer on moral character development through the pursuit of before the Blessed Sacrament. Th e Miraculous Medal truth and discovered in faith and reason. For information Novena is said each Monday following the 9:00 AM Mass. call 627-2711. Monday to Friday the Rosary is said following the 7:00 and the 9:00 AM Mass. A Rosary Service is held every The Religious Education Program provides excellent Monday from 1:45 to 2:45 PM in the Chapel. Eucharistic formation in the Catholic Faith for children in public or Adoration is held every Monday from 3:00 to 8:00 PM private schools. Preparation for First Holy Communion in the Chapel. On First Saturdays the Scriptural Rosary and Confi rmation requires two years. All classes are held is recited following the 8:00 AM Mass.
Church of Saint Mary | 4 Masses for the Week Masses and Special Intentions Monday, December 5th Is 35:1-10, Lk 5:17-26 Please Pray for the Ill 7:00 AM | Charles G. Pasqualina Ellen Ward James Leung Vincent Lodato 9:00 AM | Peter D. Kehoe Th omas DeFrancisci Richard D. Maher Bobbie Stein Tuesday, December 6th Gina Corleto Michael Hallquest Amanda Passarella St. Nicholas Virginia Fallon Linda Salierno Christine Marchese Is 40:1-11, Mt 18:12-14 Suzanne McAdams Elizabeth Hill 7:00 AM | Charles G. Pasqualina Vera G. Maher Salvatore Agovino 9:00 AM | Gertrude Deschamps Names will remain on the list for three months. Please notify the Bulletin Editor Wednesday, December 7th if you would like to continue with the listing. St. Ambrose Is 40:25-31, Mt 11:28-30 In Memoriam 7:00 AM | Ernesto Dowatich Please pray for our loved ones who have gone before us. 9:00 AM | Paul Zing 5:00 PM | Joan Feliciano Joseph F. McCarthy Margaret Kelleher Josephine Crapanzano Tito Rijo Th ursday, December 8th Th e Immaculate Conception Please Remember Th ose Serving in the Military of the Blessed Virgin Mary Gn 3:9-15, 20, Eph 1:3-6, 11-12, Lk 1:26-38 125th Brigade Support Battalion Horner, Brian G., 1stLt, USMC 7:00 AM | Dolores Hoermann 23rd Marine Regiment Howard, Edward, PV2, USA 9:00 AM | Michael Howard 25th Marine Regiment Hussey, James M., GySgt, USMC 12:00 Noon | Concetta Cataudella 2-4 GSAB Task Force Mustang Jones, Scott B., LT, USN 7:00 PM | Concetta Gentile Abbott, Kyle C., Cpl, USMC Jones, Katherine L., LTJG, USN Friday, December 9th Amerson, Jason, CPT, USA LaManna, Vincent S., Jr., PVT, USA St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin Anderson, Michael, 1LT, USA Lanza, Anthony E., LtCol, USMC Is 48:17-19, Mt 11:16-19 Arnold, James, LCpl USMC Madden, Michael E., Capt, USAF 7:00 AM | Mario Leonetti Avasthi, David, Capt, USAF Major III, A. Edward, CPT, USA 9:00 AM | Salvatore Bonventre Baber, Joseph, Maj, USAF McCabe, John C., COL, USA Saturday, December 10th Beagan, Charlie, 1stLt, USMC McKiever, Gary, LT, USA Sir 48:1-4, 9-11, Mt 17:9a, 10-13 Booth, Paige, SPC, USA Millau, Jeff rey, PFC, USMC 8:00 AM | Julian Miller Broderick, Evan, SGT, USA Morris, Jr., Brian J., MASN, USN 5:00 PM | Inocente Correno Broderick, Steven, SN, USN O’Leary, Jason, SSgt, USAF Judith Webb Kevin Gately, Sr. Brodie, Virgina H., 2ndLt, USMC Petracca, Evan L., LTJG, USN Marie Carpentiere Brown, Jason, SGT, USA Polowczyk, John P., RDML, USN John Gibson Delaney, Matthew, LCDR, USN Quinn, Anthony, Jr., SPC, USA Celebrant: Fr. Mario DiStefano, Matthew, Maj, USAF Rodi, Caroline G., CDR, USN Fontanetta, Joseph, 1stLt, USMC Sharkey, John J., LtCol, USMC Sunday, December 11th Hayes, Andrew, 1stLt, USMC Spivak III, Edmund, Capt, USAF Th ird Sunday of Advent Is 35:1-6a, 10, Jas 5:7-10, Mt 11:2-11 Hernandez, Steven, SSgt, USAF Tafone, Samantha, SPC, USA 7:30 AM | People of the Parish Higgins, James, GySgt, USMC Ullrich, Kenneth C., HN, USN Celebrant: Fr. Jiha Hilton, Justin, SGT, USA Unger, Matthew J., SPC, USA 9:00 AM | John & Mary Geoghegan Hilton, Nathaniel, SGT, USA Wood, Kelly, BMSR, USN Celebrant: Fr. Jude 10:30 AM | Leslie Ann Kempa Celebrant: Fr. Jiha If you have a service member that you would like to add to this list please e-mail 12:00 Noon | Sara & Jerry Ponsiglione [email protected]. Please include name, rank and branch of service. Mauro Meloni Clara Schrader Kevin Gately On the cover: Saint John the Baptist Preaching Patsy Monti Artist: Luca Giordano (1634-1705) Celebrant: Fr. Mario 5:00 PM | Joseph Miranda Celebrant: Fr. Bob
Th e Second Sunday of Advent | December 4, 2016 Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Th ursday, December 8th A Holy Day of Obligation Masses December 7th - 5:00 PM December 8th 7:00 AM 9:00 AM 12:00 Noon 7:00 PM
Readings and Questions for Faith Sharing on the Th ird Sunday of Advent
Reading I: Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10 Eucharistic Adoration Be strong, fear not! Monday 3:00 to 8:00 PM Reading II: James 5:7-10 Be patient, brothers and sisters, in the Chapel off the south side of the Church until the coming of the Lord. Come sit with the Lord Jesus Gospel: Matthew 11:2-11 in quiet prayer. He will prepare your way before you. Question for Adults: Am I waiting in joyful hope for the coming of Christ? Please Patronize Our Advertisers Question for Children: Business Owners: if you would like to advertise in our What am I most looking forward to bulletin, please call JS Paluch at 1-800-524-0263. at Christmas? Our parish code is 571800.
Church of Saint Mary | 6 Behold! He Comes!
A Service of Lessons and Carols
Th e Adult and Youth Choirs of St. Mary’s & Th e St. Mary’s High School Chamber Choir
Th e Schola Musica Orchestra
Mr. Robert C. Levulis, Director of Music Mr. John P. Buckel, Organist
Sunday, December 11, 2016 7:30 PM Reception to follow in the Marian Room. All are invited.
Church of St. Mary 1300 Northern Boulevard Manhasset, NY Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo, Pastor Rosary Society
Considering becoming a Rosarian? Please contact Ann Welsh at 516-627-4621 All Parish Women are Welcome! If you would like the Rosarians to pray for a special intention, please e-mail us at [email protected]. Save the Date: Th ursday, January 5, 2107 Epiphany Talk by Fr. Vincent Ritchie, SJ. Ranger Rosaries will meet on Friday, December 16th. Donations Needed: Baskets, Medium and Large Coff ee Urns. Religious Education December 6th - Th e 4th Grade will meet as usual in Immaculata Hall Cafeteria. Th e classes will proceed to the church to discuss Advent and prayer together. Please pick up your 4th grader at the church. Th ere will be no religion classes on Th ursday, December 8th in observance of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day of obligation. December 5th - 8th Grade Workbooks due. Th e following should be handed in: Choice of Sponsor, Confi rmation name and Retreat Experience. December 12th - 7th Grade Workbooks due. Th e following should be handed in: Baptism Assignment, Refl ection on Mary, November Mass Refl ection. HALL MONITORS - We are still in need of hall monitors for Monday Nights 7:30-8:30 PM in Immaculata and Marist Halls. If anyone can help us during this time, please call the Religious Education Offi ce at 627-4028. Adult Faith Formation RCIA Th e RCIA group continues the study of the Liturgy of the Mass noting the changes that take place since we have concluded the season of Ordinary Time and entered the season of Advent. Th ey will concentrate on the prayers of the Liturgy of the Word. Children’s Liturgy of the Word Children’s Liturgy of the Word at the 9:00 AM Mass Every Sunday Children in fi rst through fourth grade are invited to participate in a Liturgy of the Word (Scripture readings, a sung psalm, and “homily”) on their level of understanding in our chapel just across the hall from the main body of the Church.
Notre Dame Parish, New Hyde Park, is seeking a temporary Custodian. Tasks include vacuuming, mopping fl oors, emptying garbage receptacles, maintenance to bathrooms, minor repairs to facility, light bulb replacement, various maintenance projects as directed by the custodian supervisor, lawn maintenance (in season), snow removal (in season), ability to work with fl oor machines and light tools, lift 75 lbs., and any other duty or task deemed necessary by the custodian supervisor for the proper maintenance of the facility. Please call 516-352-7203 ext. 107.
Church of Saint Mary | 8 What does it mean to be a Consecrated All Parishioners Virgin Living in the World? are cordially invited to a Th e vocation of Consecrated Virginity Lived in the Special Mass of Solemn Consecration World is not a clerical or lay state of life, but a distinct Th ursday, December 8th form of Consecrated Life in the Church. Other forms at 2:00 PM of Consecrated Life include monastic life in the East in the Church and in the West, contemplative religious, apostolic institutes, diocesan hermits, secular institutes, and societies of apostolic life. Catherine Dillon will enter Th e mission of all those living Consecrated Life stems the Order of Consecrated Virgins. from the words of Jesus in Matthew 19, in which he acknowledges that some will choose not to marry for the sake of the kingdom of heaven, and encourages Bishop Murphy anyone who can to accept this particular gift from will preside at this special Mass. God. Each form of Consecrated Life radiates, in its distinctive way, a witness to the resurrected life to Reception to follow come. In the Gospel of Mark (12:25), Jesus observes: “When they rise from the dead they neither marry nor in the Marian Room. are given in marriage.” Based on these words of Jesus, the Church explains that those who choose virginity or celibacy now for the sake of the kingdom of heaven begin to live on earth the life that will be lived by all in the future resurrection. Th ese men and women stand as a sign of and witness to the resurrected life to come, the union with God that is the telos (intended end) of Pray for a miracle all souls. for a suff ering person through the intercession of the Th e distinctions among the various forms of Consecrated Life are important, especially for one discerning a call to consecrated life. A form might be characterized by its relation to the world, by whether it is lived in community or individually, and by whether it is more active or more contemplative.
Second Collection Next Weekend for Th e Retirement Fund for Religious
Your donation works for aging religious. “I read that roughly 95 percent of donations to the Retirement Fund for Religious aid senior religious,” a donor writes. “Th at’s wonderful when we truly want our donations to work.” Your gift works for elderly religious by helping to furnish medications, nursing care, and more. Please support next week’s collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious, and give to those who have given a lifetime. Please visit www.fathergallo.com Saint Mary’s Elementary Celebrates Thanksgiving
The students, faculty and administrators of Saint Mary’s Elementary School left for the Thanksgiving break having spent the month of November giving thanks for their many blessings and giving back to those in need in the community. Throughout the month students from St. Mary’s participated in “Giving Day,” an annual tradition. Every Tuesday in November, each student is asked to bring in one item from a list of grocery or personal products as a donation. Tuesday, Nov. 22 was the last Giving Day and all the items were collected from each classroom, 30 boxes in total including canned vegetables, pasta, cereal, paper goods and stuffing, as well as 13 frozen turkeys. Despite the freezing cold and biting wind, students were smiling and laughing as they loaded a van with the items, which are donated every year to the Queen of Peace Residence in Queens Village, a home for the aged operated by the Little Sisters of the Poor. Students are encouraged to purchase the needed items each week with their allowance as a way to practice gratitude and sharing. In addition, one St. Mary’s parent helped collect 460 pairs of socks to be distributed and another is organizing an ongoing coat drive. The halls of St. Mary’s have been decorated for the holiday as well, with many of the classroom bulletin boards displaying artwork and projects such as handprint turkeys, and family trees and photos showing how students are thankful for their families. On Nov. 18, 25 St. Mary’s middle school students visited residents of The Bristal, a senior assisted living facility in North Hills, as part of the school’s new Faith and Service program. During their visit, they made cupcakes and a Thanksgiving wreath with the residents. The St. Mary’s Pre-K classes, with the help of many of the students’ moms, celebrated a Thanksgiving feast on Wednesday, Nov. 23 in the school cafeteria – the children made handprint turkey hats out of paper plates and enjoyed a meal of turkey, corn muffins, apple juice and mini orange-frosted cupcakes. That same morning, all the students participated in a school-wide Thanksgiving prayer service, led by some of their fellow classmates. Afterward, Principal Celeste Checchia thanked everyone for their generosity during the food drive, and told the students that when they’re sitting around the Thanksgiving table, “thank your parents for all they do for you, particularly sending you to this fantastic school, and before you leave today, thank your teachers who care for you all day long in place of your parents. Have a blessed Thanksgiving.” “I hope that you all have a very happy Thanksgiving,” Sarah de Venoge, assistant principal, added. “Remember to pray, especially keeping in mind all that you have to be thankful for this holiday.” 100 Years of Broadway at Saint Mary’s High School
The Performing Arts Program at Saint Mary’s High School took audience members through a thrilling, entertaining tour of 100 Years of Broadway for its fall musical the weekend of Nov. 11-13. Through song and dance, under the direction of Andrew J. Koslosky of The Josephine Foundation, the students told the story of the history of Broadway, covering composers such as George Gershwin, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and Andrew Lloyd Webber, and shows from Broadway’s beginnings to current popular hits, including classics such as Les Miserables, Oklahoma!, and Cats and more modern musicals such as The Lion King, Wicked and Sister Act. The performance, which played three sold out shows, was a resounding success. Grace Cavallo, president of The Schools of Saint Mary, was emotional and nearly speechless as she thanked the parents in attendance for the gift of their children and for their support of and belief in the performing arts. She and Father Robert Romeo, pastor of the Church of Saint Mary, both congratulated and thanked all the students involved, on stage and behind the scenes, for sharing the gift of their talents.
Photos courtesy of John Wu ‘17
SAVE THE DATE for our next productions! Saint Mary’s High School: April 6-8, 2017 Saint Mary’s Elementary School: Feb. 9-11, 2017 St. Mary’s Respect Life Committee “Find a need and her from pursuing her desire to help the recipient of the Laetare Medal fi ll it!” — Mary poor children on behalf of Jesus. from University of Notre Dame; an Virginia Merrick honorary degree from Georgetown (1866-1955) In her early teens Mary started a University; and the Pro Ecclesia et sewing group among friends to Pontifi ce Medal, (which honors those Th e Christ Child Society was founded create clothing for needy women and who work exemplarily for the Catholic over 125 years ago in Washington children. In the Christmas season Church). In 1932 Mary was the fi rst DC, with the mission “to meet the they began making simple toys, which woman to receive the Cosmopolitan material, educational, and emotional deserving children received “from Club Medal, awarded each year to needs of children.” Today there are the Christ Child.” Mary created DC’s most outstanding citizen. almost 6,000 members of this national a “Visiting Society” that went out organization, all serving children into the community and came back In 1954, in failing health, Mary and families in need in their local with reports of material needs of the said of her life’s work: “Th e guiding communities. Members provide new families. But by 18, Mary lost both principle of the Society has always mothers with essential “layette” items her parents, requiring her to manage been personal service rendered for the (bottles, diapers, clothing, blankets, their estate and to serve as guardian to love of the Christ Child to the least and children’s books); they also her younger siblings. of these little ones. In developing this arrange a large number of programs purpose the Society has widened and and services. Th ese include: reading Still Mary continued her mission. deepened its activities to meet the and literacy programs and book She developed a kind of fi rst “fresh exigencies of its time.” Mary died on distributions; parenting programs; air fund” for the children of the January 10, 1955. in-school and after-school education inner city areas of DC; in 1891 she and enrichment programs; dedicated personally hosted 41 children in the Today Mary Virginia Merrick is facilities for children who have been countryside. With the help of family, recognized as a pioneer in American ejected from the foster system; school friends, and a growing number of Catholic social reform. Her cause for supplies, clothing and shoes for members of her “society,” the Christ canonization began in 2001 in the school-aged children; backpacks full Child Society was incorporated in Archdiocese of Washington DC; two of personal items for children in foster 1903. Services continually expanded years later, she was named a “Servant care or those fl eeing domestic violence; to include monetary relief, health of God.” If canonized, Merrick would and of course, Christmas and Easter care, and education. Young women be among the fi rst U.S.-born saints in gifts to needy children and families. were taught to sew for themselves the Catholic Church and one among a Th e story of this organization’s and others. Religious instruction small number of disabled saints. foundress is an inspiring one. was made available to public school students. English classes were opened “She took her cross and out of it Mary Virginia Merrick was born in to struggling Italian immigrants. fashioned a bridge over which she 1866, one of nine children in a well- Members sewed garments for soldiers. and others could walk on their way to to-do Catholic family, patrons of the And Mary managed the branches God” — Bishop John J. McNamara, arts in Washington, DC. Her father, of the society from her wheelchair. delivering Mary’s eulogy. Richard Merrick, was a prominent Th roughout the next decades, Mary attorney involved in founding the Law oversaw the expansion of the society, “Th is humble, sincere woman is our Center of Georgetown University. and began to express her commitment role model. She reminds us that love While still very young, Mary to service in writing. She translated of a poor child is love of the Christ accompanied her mother assisting poor books, and also wrote several religious Child, that this love is an honor, and families in the area; by eleven Mary education books for children: Life of that to serve either is a privilege.” had hopes of becoming a nun. But Christ, Come Unto Me, and Th e Altar — National Christ Child Society her life was changed forever at fi fteen, of God. when she suff ered a severe spinal cord injury in a fall from a treehouse. For Mary Virginia Merrick was widely the rest of her life, Mary was unable to recognized for all her good works walk and endured many other physical during her lifetime, and her unfailing limitations. But none of this deterred devotion to the Christ Child. She was Church of Saint Mary | 12 Parish Social Ministry SHARE CHRISTMAS & GIVING TREE DONATIONS CALENDAR
Monday, December 5th – Parish Social Ministry offi ce open 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM for Share Christmas and Giving Tree donors.
Th ursday, December 8th – Share Christmas donations due in by today.
Tuesday, December 13th – Giving Tree donations due in by today. Gifts may be placed in the collection boxes located in the south lobby or brought to the Parish Social Ministry offi ce.
Th ank you for your generosity and support!
F.O.C.U.S. Friends Off ering Care Understanding and Support Reminder CHRISTMAS GATHERING Th ursday, December 8, 2016 At the North Hempstead Country Club Port Washington, NY For questions or information please call the Parish Social Ministry offi ce at 365-2705.
In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist urges DIVINE MERCY us to “Prepare the way of the Lord.” Th is OF JESUS is what Advent is all about, for we are PRAYER GROUP called to help prepare the way of the Lord by making the real meaning of Christmas WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7TH come alive in our own hearts, in our family and to reach 3:30 to 5:30 PM out to those in need. IN THE CHAPEL If you or someone you know needs assistance, ALL ARE WELCOME please contact the St. Vincent de Paul Society at 516-627-0385 ext. 1125 or [email protected]. If you would like to make a donation, you may Bulletin Submission Policy use the collection slots at the doors of the church We welcome submissions to the weekly Bulletin. All copy and or place an envelope in the regular collection material is due by noon on Mondays preferably in electronic format marked “St. Vincent de Paul Society.” For - original documents, no PDFs. Photos or supporting graphics should be hi-resolution and sent via E-mail as attachments. Th e furniture and household donations, please call Bulletin Editor may edit submissions for content, clarity and/ 516-746-8250 to arrange for a pick up. or size. Please E-mail your submission to [email protected].
Advent Prayer Box As a follow-up to Dr. Pitta’s article in last week’s bulletin, starting today, there is a box in the south side of the church where you can place your prayer to Jesus. It is your gift to Jesus during Advent. It can be a prayer of gratitude, hope, love and requests for help. You needn’t put your name on it unless you want to. Encourage your children to put in their prayers. You can do it as often as you like. Knights of Columbus Father William A. Daly S.J. Council #2122 Serving St. Mary’s Parish in Manhasset and St. Aloysius Parish In Great Neck www.kofc2122.org To join or to fi nd out more about the Knights, Th ird Time please contact Tom Mayerhauser at tjm514@ Christopher Bower and Erin Murphy verizon.net / 516-852-0812 or St. Mary Daniel Garcia at [email protected] / Manhasset 516-358-1817.
Th e Don Bosco Squires Circle #548 welcomes young men of the parish ages 10 through 18. For more information about the Squires or an application for membership, please Bread & Wine contact Frank De Lucia at [email protected]. are off ered this week in loving memory of THE FATHER WILLIAM A. DALY COLUMBIETTES Demetria Cruz-Roman All women of the parish, age 17 and over, are invited to join. For more information or an application, please contact Maura Cliff ord at macliff [email protected].
Th e Knight of Columbus TThehe PParisharish GGiftift SShophop Gift Shop Hours Sunday 9:45 AM - 1:30 PM Tuesday and Th ursday 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Th e Gift Shop is located in the Parish Center next to the Saint John Paul II Room. Sunday, December 11th All proceeds benefi t Parish Social Ministry. after the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the Marian Room Th e Knights of Columbus will be hosting Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 11th, As an added treat, the Fr. William A. Daly after the 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses. Come Columbiettes will be selling baked goods, and enjoy a hot breakfast and have the children homemade chocolate pops, and small meet Santa. Come and enjoy breakfast with handmade gift items at the Breakfast with Santa! Santa event on Sunday, December 11th.
Church of Saint Mary | 14 Fr. William A. Daly Council #2122 cordially invite you to their CCHRISTMASHRISTMAS PARTYPARTY SSATURDAY,ATURDAY, DECEMBERDECEMBER 10th10th 6:00 PM in the Marian Room Tickets are $50.00 per person Available in the Parish Offi ce or contact DGK Matt Falcone at 516-627-4524 Hot Food - Spirits - Live Music Church of Saint Mary | 16 Youth Ministry St. Mary’s Faith and Service visited the Bristal on Friday, November 18th, after school. 25 middle schoolers visited 25 residents of the Bristal. The students made cupcakes and a Thanksgiving Wreath with the residents. I am so proud of every student who participated. They truly served the community with an open heart and happiness. - Mike Griffi n, Youth Minister Welcome New Parishioners
We welcome those who registered in our parish during November, 2016. Mr. & Mrs. Michael Rivera-Cardenas and Family Mr. & Mrs. James Kaul and Family Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Delaney and Family Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Furst Mr. Kyle Crennan & Ms. Sarah Jennings and Family Mr. & Mrs. James Warsaw and Family Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Vargas Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Higgins Mr. & Mrs. Alejandro de la Campa and Family Baptisms We welcome those who were baptized during the month of November, 2016. Colin John Gormley Beau Patrick Higgins Rose Sica Vivian Stulgis de la Campa Harper Lynn Warsaw Mary Kate Morrison Eloise Scarlett Vore Maximo Andres Gonzalez Luke Declan Delaney Purgatorial Society
Th e following names have been enrolled in our Purgatorial Society beginning December 1, 2016. Anthony F. Lotruglio Julie Ann Viola Msgr. John J. McCann Eric Adams Joseph A. Rocca William Edward Lang Leonardo Verni Elizabeth Balducci Kevin Saggese Richard Minieri, Sr.